When Jesus Paid the Tax
Young kids (7-8) · member guide · Anchor: Matthew 17:24-27· preview
From the sermon Tax Time!
What Happened in the Story?
Read Matthew 17:24-27 together. Tax collectors asked Peter if Jesus paid the temple tax. Jesus told Peter that kings don't make their own children pay taxes — so God's Son didn't have to pay the temple tax either! But Jesus said He would pay it anyway so no one would be upset or confused.
'However, not to give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and for yourself.' (Matthew 17:27)
Jesus found the tax money in a fish's mouth! But the important part is WHY Jesus paid it.
Why Did Jesus Pay When He Didn't Have To?
Jesus didn't want to make people stumble or get confused about following God. Sometimes we give up what we want so others can learn about Jesus better.
Think about a time when you let someone else go first, or you didn't argue even though you were right. How did that help keep peace?
(Write or draw your answer here)
When Should We Give Up Our Rights?
Jesus showed us that some things aren't worth fighting about. He cared more about helping people understand God's love than about being right.
What is something small you could give up this week to help someone else feel loved or to keep peace in your family?
(Write your idea here)
Activity: Act It Out!
With a partner or your family, act out the story of Peter and Jesus talking about the tax. One person is Peter, one is Jesus. Peter comes home and Jesus asks him about the tax collectors. Then Jesus explains about kings and their children, and sends Peter to find the coin in the fish's mouth!
What do you think Peter's face looked like when he found money in a fish?